Purchase of the castle and vineyards 1887 (≈ 1887)
Antoine Cristal acquired the domain of Parnay.
1890
Introduction of foreign grape varieties
Introduction of foreign grape varieties 1890 (≈ 1890)
First implantation to control phylloxera.
1947
Posthumous tribute to Antoine Cristal
Posthumous tribute to Antoine Cristal 1947 (≈ 1947)
Inauguration of a bust in his honor.
22 mars 2011
Registration for Historic Monuments
Registration for Historic Monuments 22 mars 2011 (≈ 2011)
Protection of built elements and remains.
Aujourd'hui
Aujourd'hui
Aujourd'hui Aujourd'hui (≈ 2025)
Position de référence.
Heritage classified
"The built elements of the vineyard fence called the " Clos d'entre les Murs" and the vestiges of the grafting school, in total (cf. AH 2 - school of grafting, 16 - closed from between the walls): inscription by decree of 22 March 2011"
Key figures
Antoine Cristal - Owner and wine innovator
Introduced phylloxera resistant grape varieties.
Origin and history
The Clos d'entre les Murs is an iconic winery located in Parnay, in the department of Maine-et-Loire (Pays de la Loire). Created between the late 19th and early 20th centuries, this site illustrates the evolution of winemaking techniques in the Loire Valley, marked by the phylloxera crisis and the introduction of foreign grape varieties to save local vineyards.
In 1887, Antoine Cristal, owner of the Château de Parnay, acquired the surrounding vineyards and became a pioneer of phylloxera resistant grape varieties. He also adapted cultivation methods inspired by the Chasselas de Thomery producers, first experimented in the Clos Cristal in Souzay-Champigny, then applied in the Clos between the Walls. The latter, protected by walls, symbolizes this period of agronomic innovation.
In addition to its winemaking role, Antoine Cristal founded a grafting school near his castle, helping to train local winemakers in new techniques. Its heritage is still visible today: the built elements of the fence and the vestiges of the school have been inscribed in the Historical Monuments since 2011. In 1947, a bust with its effigy was erected in front of its home, paying tribute to its lasting impact on the Ligerian vineyard.
